Fin's Fish Guide
The Porthole livebearer (Poeciliopsis gracilis) is a freshwater fish of the family Poeciliidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
The porthole livebearer (Poeciliopsis gracilis) is a small livebearing fish of the family Poeciliidae from Central America. The species has a slender body with a row of dark spots along the flank, resembling portholes, and reaches about 9 cm. It lives in streams, rivers and irrigation canals and reproduces by internal fertilisation, bearing live young; the male has an anal fin modified into a copulatory organ (gonopodium). As an omnivore it feeds on small invertebrates and algae. The species is hardy and adaptable and has become locally established beyond its native range.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Porthole livebearer?
The Porthole livebearer has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a spots pattern. Row of 'porthole' blotches on the flank; ovoviviparous, with a gonopodium in the male.
Where does the Porthole livebearer live?
The Porthole livebearer lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Streams, rivers and canals of Central America.
How big does the Porthole livebearer get?
The Porthole livebearer grows to a maximum of about 9 cm.
Is the Porthole livebearer dangerous to humans?
No, the Porthole livebearer is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Porthole livebearer edible?
The Porthole livebearer is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Poeciliopsis
More from the family Poeciliidae
Want the complete picture on the Porthole livebearer?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Porthole livebearer is one of 12,519 species in the app.